If you haven’t thought about updating your window treatments recently, there’s both good and bad news. Unfortunately, your curtains might be considered outdated. However, the positive side is that curtains are one of the quickest and simplest elements in your home to refresh. Grommet curtains and drapes are increasingly criticized by both design experts and enthusiasts on message boards.
You might not be familiar with the terminology, but you’ll likely recognize them by sight. Grommets are the large, ring-like structures that fit around a curtain rod. They are noticeable, as are the gaps they create, even from a distance, making the fabric appear loose and untidy. The space created by these circles is a major reason grommet curtains fall short. Long, clean lines with a more tailored look always appear neater. The voids that grommets introduce disrupt that flow and make the curtains appear unfinished. What once made grommet curtains trendy is precisely what renders them outdated today. Opting for a more classic style will stand the test of time better.
It’s curtains for grommets: better window coverings for today and tomorrow
Rod pocket curtains, such as the Martha Stewart Lido Linen Curtain, offer those elegant, longer lines that grommets interrupt. The “pocket” in this context is a sewn-in cuff that conceals the curtain rod, creating a smooth fabric panel. With minimal components, rod pockets avoid appearing old-fashioned over time. They also offer easier installation, sliding on in one swift motion compared to threading grommets through loops.
If a complete overhaul isn’t feasible, simply keeping your curtains open or slightly pleated can help obscure the grommets. You can also enhance your grommet curtains for a more refined look by adding decorative trim or ties. For those with a sewing machine and the necessary skills, you can transform long grommet curtains into rod pocket ones with a few folds and some stitching. When it’s finally time to replace them, make sure to steer clear of common mistakes when purchasing curtains and follow the five tips for selecting the perfect curtains for your space.
